November 9, 2024 – Issue #8
I am a self-professed grammar nerd. As I’ve gotten older, I find I don’t tolerate bad grammar anymore. Maybe it’s the years of professional experience, or just a growing appreciation for clear communication, but proper grammar (whether in writing or in speech) has become a big deal for me. And it should be for you too. Here’s why paying attention to grammar can really make a difference in your career:
Why Grammar Matters in Business:
- Creating a good first impression
- Grammar mistakes make you look careless or unprofessional
- Resumes, proposals, and reports should be free of errors.
- Clarity is Crucial:
- Example: “Let’s eat, Grandma” vs. “Let’s eat Grandma.” The first is a friendly dinner invite; the second sounds a bit alarming!
- More Examples:
- “We’re going to finish the report” vs. “We’re gonna finish the report.” “Going to” is more formal and clearer in a business context. (the second is slang, and I hate slang!)
- “I saw the new product launch” vs. “I seen the new product launch.” The first is grammatically correct and sounds more professional. (the second, grates on my nerves!)
- “I wanna discuss the project” vs. I want to discuss the project”. (Saying “I wanna discuss the project” in a meeting is like showing up in flip-flops—it’s casual, comfy, but not quite the professional look you’re going for when you want to be taken seriously.
- Filler words in speech are those little words or sounds we often use when we are thinking, pausing or trying to sound more conversational, but they do not really add meaning:
“um”, “like”, “you know”, “you see what I’m saying”, “I mean”, “right?”, “okay, so”. Some people say these words over and over and over when speaking and you just want to reach out and smack them. (I don’t, but it’s tempting).
While these filler words are common in informal speech, overusing them can make someone sound unsure or less confident. To improve clarity and flow, it is a good idea to minimize their use (of stop using them altogether) especially in more formal settings.
Conclusion:
Think you’re immune to bad grammar? Record yourself speaking and play it back—you might be surprised by what you hear!
No one’s perfect but striving for proper grammar can help make it a habit. It’s not just about following rules; it’s about ensuring your communication is clear, professional, and effective. As I’ve learned, mastering grammar can really boost your career by making better first impressions, communicating more clearly, and building trust. So, give grammar the attention it deserves and watch your professional game soar!
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Things That Make Me Happy
| Fridays A really productive workday Spring | Researching my family tree Flowers Listening to 60s music |